ACTION TO REMOVE 12 MUKHIAS IN BIHAR

ACTION TO REMOVE 12 MUKHIAS IN BIHAR

12-AUG-ENG 2

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

BUXAR------------------------The state government has intensified action regarding alleged financial irregularities in development schemes within Panchayats. According to a special report published in *Prabhat Khabar*, over 2,000 Mukhiyas across the state are under investigation for alleged irregularities in various schemes, including the Chief Minister's Rural Solar Street Light scheme, the 'Nal-Gali' (tap-and-lane) scheme, and the 'Nal-Jal' (tap-water) scheme. Meanwhile, the process of removing 12 Mukhiyas from office due to serious irregularities is in its final stage.

This list includes the names of Imtiyaz Ansari (Mukhiya of Kazipur Panchayat) and Deep Narayan Singh (Mukhiya of Padri Panchayat) from the Simri block of Buxar district. Apart from them, Mukhiyas from other districts of Bihar are also on the list for disciplinary action.

Following the report, there is a stir among three-tier Panchayat representatives in the district regarding the impending action. It is reported that the Panchayati Raj Department is proceeding with departmental action based on investigation reports submitted by the district administration and divisional-level authorities concerning these matters. The investigation has revealed irregularities such as the installation of substandard solar lights in violation of norms, the disappearance of essential records—including project estimates and measurement books—and the disbursement of government funds without the completion of work. Allegations regarding the failure to convene Gram Sabhas and the failure to inform ward members about the schemes have also surfaced during the inquiry.

The Panchayati Raj Department has initiated departmental disciplinary proceedings regarding these matters. Under Section 18(5) of the Bihar Panchayat Raj Act, if guilt is established, consequences could include removal from office, a five-year ban on contesting elections, and the recovery of government funds. Final action in both cases from Buxar is currently awaited, pending the outcome based on the district administration's investigation report.